The Dalai Lama once said, ‘‘Once a year, go somewhere you’ve never been before.’’ With that being said, travelling is a costly hobby, however fun it may be.
But that doesn’t have to be the case. Read our guide to discover the top 5 budget-friendly travel destinations in India, featuring Puducherry, Gokarna, Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Udaipur.
Quick Summary
Pondicherry: French architecture
Gokarna: Temples & tranquil beaches
Darjeeling: Tea plantations, Toy train
Sikkim: Monasteries, Pilgrimage sites
Udaipur: Rajputana residences, lakes
1. Puducherry
Formerly known as Pondicherry, this coastal union territory is known for a wonderful fusion of Indian and French cultures.
The official languages are French, English, Tamil, and Telugu. Beaches, churches, and memorials are just some of the attractions in this ‘French Riviera of the East’.
Budget: Approximately 1,397 per day, which includes meals, local transportation, and reasonably priced lodging.
Places to visit in Pondicherry
Must-Have Experiences:
Visit Auroville to see Matrimandir and the serene township.
Tour of the French Colony: Take in the historic charm and pastel-colored structures
Sri Aurobindo Ashram: A serene place of worship in the centre of the city
Affordable hotels to check into while staying in Puducherry:
Hotel Coramandal Heritage: A heritage property close to the White Town.
La Maison Radha: Prime location & great reviews.
You may also like: Best international destinations for couples
2. Gokarna
Located in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district, Gokarna is home to the holy Shri Mahabaleshwar temple.
But Gokarna also has other offerings, such as beaches, caves and cultural tours. The nearest airport is Goa’s Dabolim International Airport. It also has train routes to Mangalore, Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram.
Budget: A weekend trip costs about ₹3,000, which includes inexpensive lodging, regional cuisine, and free attractions like beaches.
Places to visit in Gokarna
Must-Have Experiences:
Beach Trek: Hike across Om, Half Moon, and Paradise Beach after starting at Kudle Beach.
Beach Hut Stay at Paradise Beach or Kudle Beach for a unique experience.
Water Sports: Surfing or Kayaking at some beaches.
Affordable hotels to check into while staying in Gokarna:
Trippr Gokarna Beach Hostel: Beachfront hotel with affordable prices.
Zostel Gokarna: Seaside hostel with dorm options
3. Darjeeling
Renowned all over the world for its black tea, Darjeeling is a hill town in West Bengal. Attractions include tea plantations, monasteries and hiking trails with scenic views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Budget: A mid-range trip with lodging, meals, sightseeing, and private transportation would cost between 7,000 and 12,000
Places to visit in Darjeeling
Must-Have Experiences:
Sunrise views from Tiger Hill.
Toy train ride at Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
Visit Happy Valley Tea Estate for a tasting session.
Affordable hotels to check into while staying in Darjeeling:
Golden Orchid – the lodge: close to Mall Road with great views.
Revolver Boutique Hotel: a Beatles-themed hotel that has cosy rooms.
4. Sikkim
Located in the Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is a northeastern state with a tranquil environment and great biodiversity.
Attractions include monasteries, national parks and lakes. Sikkim is easily reachable by air with direct flights from Kolkata. Nearest railway stations include Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri.
Budget: A nice excursion that includes mid-range lodging, meals, sightseeing, and private transportation costs between 7,000 and 12,000
Places to visit in Sikkim
Must-Have Experiences:
Picnic near the Tsomgo Lake
Visit the Nathula pass
Explore Tibetan architecture at Rumtek Monastery.
Adventure sports such as trekking & mountain biking in the city of Pelling.
Affordable hotels to check in while staying in Sikkim:
Rhenock House: Boutique property with charm and a peaceful ambience
Netuk House: Heritage homestay with traditional Sikkimese décor.
5. Udaipur
Popularly called the ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur is a city in the northwestern part of Rajasthan. It’s often considered to be the most romantic city in India.
Attractions include opulent Rajputana residences and serene lakes. The city is easily accessible by air, road and train.
Budget: 3,500 to 5,000 a day, which covers private transportation, meals, tours, and moderately priced hotels.
Places to visit in Udaipur
Must-Have Experiences:
Boat ride at Lake Pichola.
Cultural show at Bagore ki Haveli.
Affordable hotels to check in to while staying in Udaipur:
Madri Haveli: Heritage feel, good location
Nukkad Guest House: Close to all major attractions, with charming rooftop views.